Popular MC and television presenter Beatrice Gatonye Ngetich had an unforgettable Mashujaa Day this year. While hosting the national celebrations, she watched her late father be recognised as a hero of the nation.
Gatonye was one of the moderators at the 2026 Mashujaa Day event held at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret on October 20. For her, it was a homecoming, since Eldoret is the city she calls home.
The moment became even more special when the government posthumously honoured her father, Joseph Gatonye Kimani, in the Entrepreneurship and Industry category.
In a statement to TUKO.co.ke, she said standing on that stage as “a true daughter of the soil” will remain one of the proudest moments of her career. She thanked President William Ruto for the honour and described her father as “the greatest hero I have ever known.”
An official citation from the National Heroes Council explains why he was chosen. Joseph was recognised for helping develop Uasin Gishu County and nearby communities. He championed the welfare of transport operators through cooperative leadership and served as chairperson of the Council of Elders.
He also chaired the Uasin Gishu Farmers SACCO and a transport SACCO, where he worked to rally members and boost economic empowerment. His certificate of recognition was issued on October 20, 2026.
After Gatonye shared the news online, congratulations poured in. One friend wrote, “My old friend keep winning,” while another said, “Our Daughter you made us proud.” Others shared in her joy and said it was lovely to see her on stage.
For Gatonye, the day brought together two parts of her life: a successful career on the national stage and a family’s pride in a man whose quiet service to his community finally received official recognition.